'Concierge' medicine comes to Wilmington

Wilmington Adult Medicine opened in March under the leadership of Dr. Stephen Liederbach.

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - The White House reports that more than 6 million Americans have signed up for insurance through federal and state exchanges. Still, concerns persist over how expanding coverage will impact the primary doctor shortage and maintenance of quality of care.

Trying to stay ahead of all the changes, a new practice in Wilmington is pioneering the way people see their physician with what's casually called "concierge" medicine.

Wilmington Adult Medicine opened in March under the leadership of Dr. Stephen Liederbach. For an annual membership of $1,800 individuals receive what many would call "premium" service: longer visits (at least 30 minutes), same-day visits, exclusive care under a physician (not a nurse practitioner or P.A.) and the ability to directly call, text or email the doctor.

Currently, the practice is acting as a hybrid with both traditional and concierge services. The smaller service-scale Liederbach says, decreases wait room time while increasing face time.

Patients do not need to have health insurance to become a member, however; under the Affordable Care Act a policy is required by law.

Liederbach says some members have been successful in buying a "bare bones" policy while supplementing their care with concierge service.

The practice can be found at 1906 Meeting Court with appointments made by calling (910) 762-4488(910) 762-4488.